Protective styling is important in growing healthy hair, especially for curls. Manipulating curly or kinky hair can be threatening because our coils are fragile. It's harder for protein and nutrients to run through our strands because of the twists and turns in our coils, therefore the best way to protect our curls is to tuck them and have no little to no manipulation from time to time. Here are five easy protective styles you can try that can protect and help grow your hair.
No heat ponytails/buns.
These styles are one of my favorite. They have low manipulation and tension because you have to brush the hair into place and use a ponytail holder, but they do help the hair to grow as long as the pony tail/bun is not too tight. I always use my favorite gel (eco style) and pomade (edge booster) for the best hold with this style. Whenever I need to refresh it i just add more gel and mousse and tie my hair down and it will look brand new! This style typically will last 2-4 weeks with proper care and refreshing. It is important not to straighten the hair before so use extension hair that matches your hair texture.
2. Glueless Wigs.
Glueless wigs are easy to install and are very low in manipulation and tension. You can take them off daily and allow your scalp to breathe. I like to braid my hair down and wear my glueless wigs for 2-4 weeks, while oiling my scalp at least 2-4 times a week. Glueless wigs are one of my favorite protective styles because they change my look and are so easy to put on and take off. While appearing to have perfect hair, my real hair is being protected underneath and growing. Great combination!
3. Large Knotless braids
Large knotless braids have become my new favorite protective style because they don't take long to install and they are versatile with low tension and manipulation. This style can last anywhere from 4-8 weeks. They tend to get frizzy fast but the trick to keeping them fresh is pomade and mousse and wrapping your hair with a silk scarf. They will look like new. You'll begin to see your new growth easily with this cute style.
4. 2-6 cornrows
Cornrows are one of the more trendy styles today and they are actually a pretty great protective style. They're quick and easy with low tension. With this style you want to keep your scalp moisturized and wrap your hair up at night. These cornrow styles can last up to 4 weeks on natural hair. You can use your real hair or extensions.
5. Natural hair two strand twists, plaits, and updos.
These styles look beautiful on natural hair and they also help to define your curl pattern. They are easy to do on your own and have no tension. You can style these twists/plaits many different ways making these styles very versatile. They will typically lasts 2-3 weeks and once you take them out they make a great twist or braid out that can last another week or so! Try them for yourself!
All of these protective styles can be very beneficial in your hair growth journey. Try these out and see which ones are your favorites. Maybe they will all be your favorite! Remember to allow your hair to breath in between protective styles and deep condition your hair to keep it strong and also get trims when needed. This will make for a great recipe for hair growth!
Cheers to your hair growth journey, sis!